The Delhi Police has issued a fresh directive mandating that all police officers and personnel must physically appear before courts in connection with criminal trials for the purpose of deposition and evidence.
The circular, issued by the Office of the Commissioner of Police, partially modifies an earlier order dated September 4, 2025. It emphasizes that officers cannot skip court appearances or rely on digital alternatives when their presence is required for testimony.
“This has the approval of the Commissioner of Police, Delhi,” stated the circular signed by Special Commissioner of Police (Crime), Devesh Chandra Srivastva, IPS.
The new order has been circulated to all Deputy Commissioners of Police (Districts/Units) and Special/Joint/Additional Commissioners of Police in Delhi and New Delhi for necessary compliance. Additionally, copies of the circular have been forwarded to the Chairman of the Bar Council of Delhi and the Chairman of the Coordination Committee of All District Court Bar Associations of Delhi for information.
Background
The earlier circular dated September 4, 2025, had provided certain relaxations regarding the appearance of police personnel in court proceedings. However, the latest modification underlines the importance of officers’ direct participation in judicial processes, signaling a stricter approach to ensure accountability and smooth conduct of trials.
The move is expected to strengthen the prosecution process by ensuring that evidence and depositions are placed before courts without delays, a long-standing concern in criminal justice delivery.
Implications
- For Police Personnel: They will now be required to attend court physically in every criminal trial where their testimony is essential, reducing instances of adjournments due to absence.
- For Judicial Proceedings: The directive is likely to help in expediting trial processes, minimizing procedural delays, and improving coordination between police and judiciary.
- For Legal Fraternity: By forwarding the circular to the Bar Council of Delhi and coordination committees of bar associations, the police have indicated a collaborative approach to ensure transparency and efficiency.
This decision is seen as part of larger efforts by Delhi Police to improve conviction rates and reinforce faith in the judicial system by ensuring timely cooperation in criminal trials.
